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The PONANT EXPLORERS are a collection of small luxury expedition ships designed to combine French-style elegance with exploration.
They are small enough to create an intimate atmosphere while offering the facilities and expedition features needed to explore a wide variety of destinations. The current PONANT EXPLORERS fleet includes Le Lapérouse, Le Champlain, Le Bougainville, Le Dumont-d’Urville, Le Jacques Cartier and Le Bellot. PONANT describes these vessels as part of its Explorer fleet, with the ships designed around exploration, elegant interiors and connection with the sea.
But what exactly is an Explorer ship?
And how is it different from PONANT's Sisterships, Le Commandant Charcot or the smaller sailing vessels?
This guide explains the PONANT Explorer Class, what you can expect onboard, the ships in the fleet and the types of travellers and destinations they may suit best.
At a Glance
| Feature | PONANT EXPLORERS |
|---|---|
| Ship style | Small luxury expedition ships |
| Ships in the class | Le Lapérouse, Le Champlain, Le Bougainville, Le Dumont-d’Urville, Le Jacques Cartier and Le Bellot |
| Maximum capacity | Approximately 180 guests, depending on the vessel |
| Atmosphere | Intimate, elegant and contemporary |
| Designed for | Luxury cruising combined with exploration |
| Notable features | Marina platform, outdoor spaces, pool, theatre and Blue Eye underwater lounge on the Explorer series |
| Best for | Travellers seeking small-ship luxury with expedition-style experiences |
The PONANT EXPLORERS are a series of purpose-designed small expedition ships that combine the atmosphere of a private yacht with the facilities of a luxury cruise ship.
The first ship in the series, Le Lapérouse, was designed to take guests to remote destinations while maintaining comfort and style. PONANT describes the vessel as the first in the PONANT EXPLORERS series.
The Explorer ships were created around a simple concept: bring guests closer to the destination without sacrificing luxury.
This means you can spend the day exploring a remote coastline, joining an expedition activity or discovering a culturally significant destination, then return to a refined ship with restaurants, lounges, wellness facilities and comfortable accommodation.
The result is a style of cruising that sits between traditional luxury cruising and expedition travel.
ne of the defining characteristics of the Explorer Class is its balance between size, comfort and expedition capability.
Unlike large mainstream cruise ships, PONANT EXPLORERS carry relatively few guests. This creates a more intimate onboard atmosphere and can make the ship feel more like a private yacht than a conventional cruise liner.
At the same time, the ships include features designed around exploration.
The Explorer vessels have a marina platform that can be used for water activities and embarkation, while onboard facilities include swimming pools, theatres, restaurants, lounges and wellness areas.
The Explorer concept
PONANT's Explorer ships are designed around several key ideas:
- Small-ship intimacy
- Luxury accommodation
- French-inspired dining
- Contemporary design
- Access to remote destinations
- Expedition-style exploration
- Close connection with the sea
- Comfortable spaces for relaxing between excursions
This combination is what makes the Explorer Class particularly appealing to travellers who don't want to choose between luxury and adventure.
The first PONANT Explorer
Le Lapérouse was the first vessel in the PONANT EXPLORERS series.
PONANT describes the ship as combining comfort and style with access to some of the world's more remote destinations.
The ship accommodates up to 184 guests in 92 staterooms and suites, according to PONANT's current ship information.
Onboard facilities include:
- Restaurant
- Lounges and bars
- Spa and wellness facilities
- Swimming pool
- Theatre
- Boutique
- Marina platform
- Blue Eye underwater lounge
Why choose Le Lapérouse?
Le Lapérouse can appeal to travellers who want the Explorer experience in a relatively intimate setting while enjoying the comforts expected from a luxury cruise.
👉 Learn more about Le Lapérouse →
Contemporary luxury with an expedition spirit
Le Champlain is part of the original generation of PONANT EXPLORERS and shares the class's emphasis on refined interiors, exploration and connection with the sea.
The ship features restaurants, lounges, wellness facilities, a swimming pool, theatre and marina platform.
Why choose Le Champlain?
Le Champlain may suit travellers who want a modern small-ship environment combined with the flexibility to explore destinations through both traditional shore excursions and expedition-style activities.
👉 Learn more about Le Champlain →
Exploration, elegance and open views
Le Bougainville is the third ship in the PONANT EXPLORERS series. PONANT describes it as combining exploration, elegance and an open design towards the sea with modern equipment.
The ship offers:
- Restaurant
- Lounges and bars
- Spa
- Hammam
- Fitness room
- Swimming pool
- Theatre
- Boutique
- Marina platform
The ship can accommodate up to 184 guests, with a selection of staterooms and suites.
Why choose Le Bougainville?
Le Bougainville is a strong option for travellers who want a contemporary luxury ship with a clear emphasis on exploration and outdoor experiences.
👉 Learn more about Le Bougainville →
A modern Explorer for intimate discovery
Le Dumont-d'Urville is another member of the PONANT Explorer fleet, sharing the class's characteristic combination of modern design, small-ship intimacy and expedition-oriented features.
Like the other Explorer vessels, its onboard experience is designed to keep guests connected to the destination while providing a comfortable and refined base.
Why choose Le Dumont-d'Urville?
It can suit travellers who prefer a small luxury vessel and want to combine comfortable cruising with discovery-focused itineraries.
👉 Learn more about Le Dumont-d'Urville →
The latest addition to the PONANT Explorers
Le Jacques Cartier is the latest addition to the PONANT EXPLORERS fleet.
PONANT describes the ship as combining modern design and innovative technologies with an intimate and refined cruise experience.
Its facilities include:
- Gastronomic restaurant
- Lounges and bars
- Spa and wellness facilities
- Swimming pool
- Theatre
- Marina platform
- Blue Eye underwater lounge
Why choose Le Jacques Cartier?
Le Jacques Cartier is particularly attractive to travellers who want a contemporary ship with modern design while retaining the intimacy associated with small-ship cruising.
It also demonstrates how the Explorer concept has evolved while retaining the same fundamental emphasis on exploration and comfort.
👉 Learn more about Le Jacques Cartier →
Contemporary design with a small-ship atmosphere
Le Bellot is one of the newer-generation PONANT EXPLORERS and is designed around the same combination of exploration, luxury and connection with the sea.
The ship's current PONANT profile includes a range of suites, including Prestige, Privilege, Grand and Owner's Suites.
Le Bellot also operates across a broad range of destinations, with PONANT showcasing voyages from the Saint Lawrence River and Mediterranean to the Caribbean, Norway and Iceland.
Why choose Le Bellot?
Le Bellot is a good choice for travellers who want a modern luxury expedition vessel without moving into the highly specialised category of a polar ship such as Le Commandant Charcot.
👉 Learn more about Le Bellot →
PONANT Explorer Ships Compared
| Ship | Explorer Position | Approx. Guest Capacity | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Le Lapérouse | First in the Explorer series | 184 | Small-ship luxury and exploration |
| Le Champlain | Early Explorer series | Approx. 180 | Luxury discovery and exploration |
| Le Bougainville | Third Explorer | 184 | Luxury and destination-focused exploration |
| Le Dumont-d'Urville | Explorer series | Approx. 180 | Intimate luxury exploration |
| Le Jacques Cartier | Latest Explorer addition | Approx. 180 | Modern design and intimate exploration |
| Le Bellot | Explorer series | Approx. 180 | Modern luxury and diverse destinations |
One of the features associated with PONANT's Explorer concept is the Blue Eye underwater lounge.
The Blue Eye is designed to give guests an underwater perspective through observation windows below the waterline. It also incorporates underwater microphones, allowing guests to experience sounds from beneath the surface.
This creates a different way of connecting with the marine environment while remaining inside the ship.
The feature is highlighted across PONANT's Explorer vessels, including Le Bougainville and Le Jacques Cartier.
For travellers who enjoy marine life, photography and the natural environment, this can be one of the most distinctive aspects of the Explorer experience.
👉 Learn more about PONANT Expedition Cruises →
Another characteristic feature of the Explorer ships is the marina platform.
Located close to the water, the platform can provide access for water-based activities and expedition operations depending on the itinerary.
PONANT describes the marina platform on its Explorer ships as a place from which guests can embark on sea excursions or participate in water activities.
This is particularly useful on itineraries where the ocean itself is part of the experience.
Depending on the destination, activities may include opportunities for swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding or other water-based experiences.
Activities vary according to the itinerary, weather and local conditions.
👉 Learn more about PONANT Cruise Experiences →
An Explorer cruise is not simply an expedition cruise with luxury added to it.
The onboard experience is deliberately designed to feel refined and comfortable.
Dining
French-inspired gastronomy is an important part of the PONANT experience. The Explorer ships feature restaurants designed around high-quality dining and the culinary traditions associated with the brand.
Lounges and bars
Explorer ships provide intimate lounges and bars where you can relax, socialise or simply enjoy the scenery.
Wellness
Spa and wellness facilities provide opportunities to unwind after a day of sightseeing or exploration. Depending on the ship, facilities can include treatments, fitness areas, sauna or hammam facilities.
Swimming pool
The pool provides another place to relax and enjoy the surroundings between excursions.
Theatre and lectures
The theatre can be used for performances, presentations and lectures. On expedition-focused voyages, naturalists and other specialists may provide talks about the destination.
Outdoor spaces
The Explorer ships are designed to encourage guests to spend time outside and observe the landscapes through which they are travelling.
PONANT's Explorer ships and Sisterships share many characteristics, including small-ship luxury and expedition capability.
However, the Explorer Class was developed as a newer generation of expedition yacht, with features such as the Blue Eye underwater lounge and a strong emphasis on opening the ship towards the sea.
PONANT's current fleet lists L'Austral, Le Boréal, Le Lyrial and Le Soléal as Sisterships, while the six vessels discussed above are classified as PONANT EXPLORERS.
PONANT Explorers vs Sisterships
| Feature | PONANT EXPLORERS | Sisterships |
|---|---|---|
| Ship style | Modern small expedition yachts | Small luxury expedition ships |
| Atmosphere | Contemporary and intimate | Elegant and intimate |
| Expedition capability | Yes, depending on itinerary | Yes, depending on itinerary |
| Blue Eye | A defining feature of the Explorer design | Not a standard feature of the Sistership class |
| Ideal for | Travellers seeking newer expedition-yacht design and facilities | Travellers who prefer the established PONANT Sistership design |
It is important not to treat every PONANT expedition ship as interchangeable.
Le Commandant Charcot is classified separately by PONANT as a polar expedition ship and is specifically designed for high-polar exploration.
The Explorer Class, by comparison, is a broader small-ship expedition fleet that operates across a wide variety of destinations.
👉 Learn more about Antarctica Cruises →
👉 Learn more about Arctic Cruises →
PONANT Explorers vs Le Commandant Charcot
| Feature | PONANT EXPLORERS | Le Commandant Charcot |
|---|---|---|
| Primary concept | Luxury expedition yacht | High-polar exploration ship |
| Destination range | Broad range of cultural, coastal and expedition destinations | Specialised polar destinations |
| Polar capability | Depends on the individual ship and itinerary | Purpose-designed for high-polar exploration |
| Best for | Luxury and exploration across diverse destinations | Travellers seeking specialised polar adventures |
One of the biggest advantages of the Explorer Class is its versatility.
Explorer ships can be deployed across a wide range of destinations, meaning you should not think of them as ships designed only for polar expeditions.
Depending on the ship and sailing, Explorer itineraries can include destinations such as:
- Mediterranean
- Northern Europe
- Scandinavia
- Iceland
- Caribbean
- North America
- Asia
- Australia
- The South Pacific
- Remote coastal destinations
PONANT's current Explorer ship information, for example, showcases Le Bellot voyages across destinations ranging from the Saint Lawrence River and Mediterranean to the Caribbean, Norway and Iceland.
The exact destinations vary by season and departure.
Yes — but it is important to understand what PONANT means by expedition.
PONANT's Expeditions collection includes remote destinations and activities such as Zodiac outings, hikes and other immersive experiences led by naturalist guides and specialists.
An Explorer ship can therefore provide a comfortable base for an expedition-style journey without requiring you to give up luxury.
That balance is particularly attractive to travellers who want to spend their days exploring but return to a refined ship at the end of the day.
The Explorer Class may be right for you if you want:
You prefer a more intimate atmosphere rather than a large resort-style cruise ship.
You want comfortable accommodation, fine dining and wellness facilities alongside exploration.
You are interested in destinations where a smaller vessel and expedition-style operations can provide a more immersive experience.
You enjoy being outdoors and want opportunities to observe marine environments, wildlife and landscapes.
You prefer contemporary design and modern expedition features.
A balance of relaxation and discovery
You want a cruise that feels luxurious without being overly formal or detached from the destination.
The Explorer Class is not automatically the best choice for every traveller.
You may prefer Le Commandant Charcot if your primary goal is high-polar exploration.
You may prefer a Sistership if you like the established PONANT ship design and find a suitable itinerary operating on one.
You may prefer Le Ponant if the sailing experience itself is a major part of your holiday.
PONANT's fleet currently distinguishes these categories, including sailing ships, a polar expedition ship, Sisterships and PONANT EXPLORERS.
Don't choose by ship alone
Although the six Explorer vessels share a common concept, the best ship for you depends on more than the ship's design.
Start with these questions:
1. Where do you want to go?
Your destination should be your starting point.
2. What type of experience do you want?
Do you want culture, wildlife, adventure, photography, relaxation or a combination?
3. Which ship operates your preferred itinerary?
Not every Explorer ship operates every destination.
4. What onboard facilities matter to you?
Consider the pool, spa, theatre, dining venues, suites and outdoor spaces.
5. How important is expedition capability?
If you are visiting a remote destination, expedition facilities may be more important than traditional luxury amenities.
6. What accommodation do you want?
Compare the stateroom and suite categories available on your specific vessel.
7. What does the itinerary actually include?
The ship is your base, but the itinerary determines what you will experience.
Explorer Features at a Glance
| Feature | What It Adds to the Experience |
|---|---|
| Blue Eye underwater lounge | An underwater perspective of the marine environment |
| Marina platform | Convenient access to the sea and water-based activities |
| Outdoor areas | More opportunities to observe landscapes and wildlife |
| Theatre | Lectures, presentations and entertainment |
| Spa and wellness | Relaxation and wellbeing between excursions |
| Swimming pool | A place to relax while enjoying the surrounding scenery |
💡 BlueSun Insight
The Explorer Class is about balance
The biggest misconception about expedition cruising is that you have to choose between comfort and adventure. The PONANT Explorer Class demonstrates that you don't necessarily have to. These ships are designed to take you closer to destinations while maintaining the refined atmosphere expected from a luxury cruise.
That makes them particularly appealing for travellers who want to explore a remote coastline in the morning, enjoy a destination-focused excursion during the day and return to elegant accommodation, fine dining and a comfortable lounge in the evening. But our advice is simple: don't choose an Explorer just because it is an Explorer.
Choose the destination first. Then choose the itinerary.
Then compare the Explorer ships operating that itinerary.
The "best" PONANT Explorer is the one that delivers the experience you want in the destination you have dreamed of visiting.
The PONANT EXPLORERS offer a distinctive combination of:
- Small-ship intimacy
- French-inspired luxury
- Contemporary design
- Expedition-style exploration
- Comfortable accommodation
- Destination-focused experiences
- Outdoor and marine access
- Modern onboard facilities
They sit in an appealing middle ground between traditional luxury cruising and specialist expedition travel.
For travellers who want to explore without giving up comfort, the Explorer Class can be an excellent choice.
But the individual itinerary still matters.
Always compare the ship, destination, route, accommodation and included experiences before booking.
If the PONANT Explorer Class has caught your attention, you may be wondering what makes these ships so popular among luxury expedition travellers.
Here are some of the most common questions our PONANT experts are asked about the Explorer Class. Have a read through these FAQs, or speak with our team any time on 1300 799 758.
PONANT EXPLORERS are a class of small luxury expedition ships within the PONANT fleet. The current class consists of Le Lapérouse, Le Champlain, Le Bougainville, Le Dumont-d'Urville, Le Jacques Cartier and Le Bellot.
PONANT currently lists six ships in the PONANT EXPLORERS class: Le Lapérouse, Le Champlain, Le Bougainville, Le Dumont-d'Urville, Le Jacques Cartier and Le Bellot.
Both are small luxury ships, but the Explorer Class represents a newer generation of expedition yachts with features such as the Blue Eye underwater lounge and an emphasis on contemporary design and connection with the sea. PONANT separately classifies L'Austral, Le Boréal, Le Lyrial and Le Soléal as Sisterships.
Yes. PONANT uses its Explorer vessels for expedition-style journeys and other destination-focused itineraries. The exact expedition activities available depend on the ship, destination and voyage.
It is possible, particularly during open-ocean passages, but sea conditions vary greatly by destination and itinerary. If you are prone to seasickness, discuss your concerns before booking.
The Blue Eye underwater lounge is a key feature of the Explorer concept, but travellers should always check the individual ship's current specifications before booking.
Some PONANT expedition vessels operate in polar regions, but travellers should not assume that every Explorer ship is suitable for every Antarctic itinerary. Check the specific ship and departure. For specialised high-polar voyages, Le Commandant Charcot is a separate polar expedition ship.
Yes. They combine luxury accommodation, French-inspired gastronomy, lounges, wellness facilities and other premium amenities with expedition and exploration features.
There is no single best Explorer ship. The right choice depends on your destination, preferred itinerary, accommodation requirements, onboard preferences and the ship available for your chosen departure.
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Choosing the Right PONANT Ship
Compare individual PONANT ships and find the vessel that best matches your expedition.
Antarctica
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Kimberley
Discover one of Australia's great expedition destinations, from dramatic gorges and waterfalls to wildlife and remote coastal landscapes.
The PONANT Explorer Class offers an exceptional combination of luxury and exploration, but choosing between the individual ships can still be confusing.
Our cruise specialists can help you compare available Explorer ships, itineraries, destinations, staterooms and current offers to find the option that best suits your travel style.
Explore PONANT Explorer cruises or contact BlueSun Travel for personalised advice.
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